Celebrating Aboriginal culture at North Hastings High School

Celebrating Aboriginal Success and the Year of the Inuit was the focus of the second annual Think Indigenous Expo at North Hastings High School[1] in December 2010. By all accounts the event was an incredible success!

The student-hosted event featured First Nation, Métis and Inuit performances, followed by breakout sessions in which students participated in 40-minute teachings by Elders, Inuit students and other guests.

"This was a fantastic event for the school and community. People came together to celebrate, to learn and to share. I look forward to many more Think Indigenous events at North Hastings High School as we continue to build on the foundation of excitement created by the first two," remarked Heather Taylor, Long-term Occasional Teacher, North Hastings High School.

The room was electrified as over 400 students and community members joined in the “Friendship Dance,” taking up the entire gym. Many had their faces painted and hundreds of people sampled contemporary and traditional foods prepared by the Native Studies students. Native Studies students and members of the Aboriginal Club known as The Wolf Pack demonstrated their Husky pride as they showcased their accomplishments.

North Hastings High School (NHHS) is committed to success for all students. Together with community partners, NHHS provides programs that prepare students for transition to apprenticeship programs, college, university and the workplace. Many NHHS students have earned prestigious scholarships that recognize excellence in academics, extra-curricular and community involvement and we offer unique 4-credit courses that are provincially recognized. The Specialist High Skills Major programs in Forestry and Environment allow students to learn the principles of forestry, resource management and environmental studies. The students acquire the skills, certifications, and knowledge to gain employment in forestry and resource-based careers or to pursue post-secondary programs in these areas. The school also offers numerous Cooperative Education opportunities including the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). Each program promotes valuable hands-on work experiences for all levels of learners.